I just got back from my inaugural Essence Music Festival, annually hosted in New Orleans, and let me tell you I’m already having Essence withdrawal. I’ve been to New Orleans times before, and NOLA is already a vibe by itself, but added with Essence and all the people that flock to town it’s truly a sight to see.
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My first-ever Essence Weekend lasted about 6 days of heat and fun. I came a few days earlier to enjoy the city. Canal Street, Bourbon Street, French Market, food, fireworks, and more. Followed by all things Essence from Friday-Sunday with a few yoga classes and pop-ups in between.
The convention center housed the marketplace, seminars, bookstore, and cooking demos, to mention a few. I fell in love with new paintings, discovered new books, products, tips, and listened to the most brilliant of panellists.
The Superdome housed the main stage and Superlounge performances. On the first night at the main stage, Ms Patti LaBelle was honoured with the key to the city. Estelle came through with a dope African and Caribbean set that had me up dancing and jumping. Missy Elliot showed up and turned allllll the way out, closing the show! Her performances in every aspect were beyond A-MAZING, and I don’t have enough words. The next day we heard words of wisdom from forever first lady Michelle Obama while Mary J. Blige closed out the night by taking us back. And the last night, JD vs Lil’Jon was definitely the highlight, bringing out artist after artist.
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The Superlounges concerts are a vibe too, try and visit them too. Superlounges are four smaller lounges with performers that range from afrobeat, golden era, what’s hot right now, and playlist. You can get a little closer to the artist or make space to freely dance I think I liked the lounges a little more.
I got up close with NAO and Elle Varner along with some others. With easier access to food and drinks, along with some a photo lounge, charging station, desserts, and express massage, who wouldn’t like any of those things?! I couldn’t get enough.
Outside of the convention center and Superdome events, I attended two yoga classes, attended several beauty brand pop-up stores/mixers, live podcasts, brunches, and more! Everything was great. Though I will admit that I did expect there would be more ‘specialness’ for the 25th celebration but still, everything was great.
I had so much fun and met so many people this weekend. There were endless music and food options. Along with celebrity eye candy. The weather was rain-free, though extremely hot, but it is the South in July after all. My camera was on overflow. And memories made. Essence Music Festival is truly an amazing space to walk into because surrounded by artistry, style, and intelligence. It’s simply melanin magic.
Planning to go next year? Lemme know below in the comments.
